The
original example of this distinctive helmet was found in a cave near
Hebron, Israel, and was thought to be captured war booty of the Jewish
Zealots who revolted against Rome during the reign of Hadrian. The first
evidence of the crossbar reinforcements as seen on this helmet date
to the time of Trajan's Dacian Wars and are thought to be a defensive
measure against the deadly two handed falx, a large sickle-sword capable
of cleaving an unreinforced helmet in two. On the excavated helmets
from the Dacian War period, these crossbars appear to be a "field modification,"
hastily applied over the eyebrows of Imperial Gallic helmets. This Imperial
Italic offered by Albion represents the earliest Roman helmet discovered
in which the crossbars were probably part of the original construction.
This is the only ready-made Legionary helmet available that is suitable
for use in the second century A.D., an important time especially for
the great wars against the Germans, and the period featured in the film
epic "Gladiator." Manufactured by the Deepeeka Group (India) of 18 gauge
steel with brass decorations. Please specify head circumference when
ordering to ensure closest fit.